Imposing Decency: The Politics of Sexuality and Race in Puerto Rico, 1870–1920 (American Encounters/Global Interactions)

Studying Puerto Rican history can be quite a challenge when there are minimal books on the subject. However, thanks to Eileen Suarez and Luis Figueroa (Sugar, Slavery and Freedom) the history of Puerto Rico comes alive in a rich and historic narrative. I especially enjoy the book's concentration on Ponce the birthplace of my maternal grandmother. This book is a must for serious students of Puerto Rican history.

I bought this book because both sides of my family are from Puerto Rico. I grew up in NY & grew up learning little about the history there. This book was so great. It talks lots about what women's lives were like, primarily living in Ponce. It offers various examples of real cases that involved prostitution, spouse physical abuse, life of working class women as well as upper class, the effects the US had once they colonized Puerto Rico & introduced divorce as well as more job opportunities & political rights that Spain forbid. it was really informative but in a pleasing way. I enjoyed it & recommend it to anyone wanting to learn more about PR's roots & the 1900's women's history on the island.